Zoonotic Diseases and Wildlife in Latin America: A Necessity for Implementing the One Health Approach

Abstract

Approximately 60% of all emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) events in humans are attributed to zoonotic origins, with most originating in wildlife, where wildlife trade and consumption represent significant risk factors. Latin America is one of the most biodiverse regions in the world and faces considerable challenges in terms of wildlife preservation. Previous efforts to control wildlife trade and consumption practices worldwide have primarily focused on conservation, overlooking the health component when developing behavioral change programs. Similarly, some initiatives overlooked the needs and characteristics of local communities, making it necessary to consider a unifying and integrative approach such as the One Health approach. This study employed multicenter and mixed-methods approaches, including a Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) survey, interviews with key actors, focus group discussions, and participatory community-based action. By identifying the main drivers in urban and rural communities across Latin America, we co-construct strategies tailored to the local context with the communities to educate, raise awareness of zoonotic risk and wildlife conservation practices, and ultimately change behavior within the population. The project involved interdisciplinary and participatory work between the project team, local authorities, and community representatives, with One Health approach. This collaboration enabled us to identify local issues that impact human, animal, and environmental health and implement actions aimed at reducing the risk of zoonotic diseases and promoting biodiversity conservation.